intercept

[in-ter-sept, in-ter-sept] / ˌɪn tərˈsɛpt, ˈɪn tərˌsɛpt /

VERB

head off; interrupt

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ambush arrest block catch cut off deflect hijack prevent seize stop take away

STRONG

appropriate check curb hinder interlope interpose obstruct shortstop take

WEAK

cut in head off at pass make off with

Antonyms

STRONGEST

allow encourage free give let go release

STRONG

aid assist help keep permit promote refuse reject

WEAK

abet forward

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The UK is locked in last-minute talks with France over the renewal of a deal to pay for beach patrols to intercept small boats in the English Channel.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Israel's famed Iron Dome system is the third tier and was originally designed to intercept short-range rockets and artillery shells.

From Barron's • Mar. 28, 2026

We have one of the world’s most effective defense shields and intercept more than 95% of these attacks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

The incidents happened on Wednesday night shortly after Israel's military said it was "working to intercept" an Iranian missile attack.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

To intercept Hermes, it'll have to reach escape velocity, but it was only designed to get to orbit.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir

intercept

Example Sentences

Related Words